The Most Common Travel Scams in 9 Global Cities
Traveling to new cities around the world is an exciting experience, but it also comes with its set of challenges, including the risk of encountering scams. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, being aware of the most common travel scams can help you stay safe and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most prevalent travel scams in nine major global cities. From petty theft to sophisticated schemes, understanding these scams will empower you to navigate your destination with confidence. For an in-depth analysis, check out the original [CNBC article](https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/19/the-most-common-travel-scams-in-9-global-cities-.html).
1. New York City, USA: The Fake Charity Scam
New York City, with its bustling streets and diverse population, attracts millions of tourists each year. Unfortunately, it’s also a hotspot for the fake charity scam.
How It Works
Scammers pose as representatives of legitimate charities, often capitalizing on current events or local disasters. They approach unsuspecting tourists in busy areas like Times Square or Central Park, asking for donations.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Pressured donations: Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to force immediate donations.
- Lack of official identification: Legitimate charities will have proper identification and credentials.
- No receipts provided: Always ask for a receipt to ensure your donation is legitimate.
2. London, UK: The Ticket Scalping Scam
London’s iconic landmarks and events make it a prime location for ticket scalping scams.
Spotting Fake Tickets
Scammers sell counterfeit tickets to popular attractions like the West End shows or Wimbledon. These fake tickets often look convincing but are unusable at the venue.
Preventive Measures
- Buy tickets from official sources: Always purchase tickets from authorized sellers or official websites.
- Verify authenticity: Check for security features and verify the ticket’s legitimacy before purchase.
- Avoid street vendors: Refrain from buying tickets from unofficial street vendors to minimize risk.
3. Paris, France: The Friendship Bracelet Scam
Paris, known as the city of love, has its unique scams, including the friendship bracelet scam.
Execution of the Scam
A scammer approaches tourists with a brightly colored bracelet and offers to make a custom one. Once the bracelet is tied too tightly or an additional request is made, they demand payment.
How to Avoid It
- Politely decline unsolicited offers: Don’t engage with strangers offering unsolicited help or gifts.
- Be cautious of overly persistent individuals: If someone seems too eager to offer assistance, it might be a scam.
4. Tokyo, Japan: The Distraction Theft Scam
Tokyo is celebrated for its safety, yet petty theft can still occur through distraction tactics.
Common Techniques
Scammers might create distractions by bumping into you, asking for directions, or causing a commotion, while an accomplice steals your belongings.
Safety Tips
- Stay aware of your surroundings: Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant in crowded places.
- Avoid displaying valuables: Limit the use of expensive gadgets or jewelry in public.
5. Dubai, UAE: The Overpriced Taxi Scam
Dubai’s luxurious image attracts many tourists, but it also faces taxi scams where drivers overcharge unsuspecting travelers.
Recognizing the Scam
Taxi drivers may take longer routes, refuse to use the meter, or add unexpected fees to inflate the fare.
How to Protect Yourself
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps: Opt for reputable services that offer fare estimation.
- Insist on using the meter: Ensure the taxi meter is turned on at the start of your journey.
- Agree on a fare beforehand: If the meter is not working, agree on a price before the ride.
6. Rome, Italy: The Attraction Ticket Scam
Rome’s rich history attracts millions, making it a target for attraction ticket scammers.
Common Scams
Scammers sell fake or invalid tickets to popular sites like the Colosseum or Vatican Museums, leading to denied entry and wasted time.
Prevention Strategies
- Purchase tickets from official vendors: Always buy tickets directly from the attraction’s official website or authorized sellers.
- Check ticket details: Verify dates, times, and entry information to ensure authenticity.
- Avoid street sellers: Refrain from purchasing tickets from individuals on the street or unofficial kiosks.
7. Sydney, Australia: The Rental Scam
With its stunning beaches and landmarks, Sydney is also a focal point for rental scams.
How the Scam Unfolds
Scammers post fake rental listings online, often requesting deposits or payments upfront without actually offering the property.
Protective Measures
- Verify the listing: Research the property and confirm the rental with official sources.
- Never pay upfront: Avoid paying deposits or fees before seeing the property in person.
- Use secure payment methods: Opt for payment methods that offer protection against fraud.
8. Bangkok, Thailand: The Gem Scam
Bangkok’s vibrant markets are a magnet for tourists, making it susceptible to the gem scam.
Understanding the Gem Scam
Scammers approach tourists, claiming their jewelry stores sell high-quality gems at unbeatable prices. They sell fake or overpriced gems, leaving travelers with worthless items.
Avoiding the Scam
- Research gem prices: Educate yourself on gem prices and reputable sellers before making a purchase.
- Buy from authorized dealers: Always purchase gems from certified and well-reviewed stores.
- Ask for certification: Legitimate gems come with certification from recognized authorities.
9. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: The ATM Skimming Scam
Rio de Janeiro’s scenic beauty attracts visitors, but it also sees its share of ATM skimming scams.
How ATM Skimming Works
Scammers install skimming devices on ATMs to capture card information and PINs, leading to unauthorized transactions and financial loss.
Safety Tips
- Use ATMs in secure locations: Prefer banks or well-lit, busy areas when withdrawing cash.
- Inspect the ATM: Look for any unusual devices or tampering around the card slot and keypad.
- Cover your PIN: Always shield the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing.
Conclusion
Traveling to global cities offers incredible experiences, but it’s essential to stay informed about potential scams. By understanding the most common scams in cities like New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, Dubai, Rome, Sydney, Bangkok, and Rio de Janeiro, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and enjoy a safe, memorable trip.
Always remain vigilant, research your destinations, and trust your instincts. For more detailed information and updates on travel scams, refer to the original [CNBC article](https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/19/the-most-common-travel-scams-in-9-global-cities-.html).
Continue your reading here My Flight One Travel Blog
Enjoy our game while waiting for your flight Fly the plane by My Flight One
Key Statistics presented by My Flight One
- While the provided content does not contain specific statistical insights, it highlights the prevalence of travel scams in major cities. For broader context, according to Travel Pulse, travel fraud rates have increased by more than 12% in the early stages of trip planning from one year to the next, indicating a growing concern for travelers.
- In the United States, Americans lost approximately $2.6 million to travel scams between April 2024 and April 2025, with the most financially damaging scams occurring in the travel agent/agency category, costing over $1.1 million, as reported by Kinglike Concierge.
- Internationally, over 20% of international travelers have reported being scammed at least once, with tourist-targeted crimes increasing by over 35% during peak travel seasons, as noted by Voye Global.
Questions & Answers
Q: What is the fake charity scam in New York City?
A: Scammers in New York City pose as representatives of legitimate charities, using high-pressure tactics to solicit immediate donations from tourists in busy areas like Times Square or Central Park.
Q: How can tourists spot fake tickets in London, UK?
A: Tourists in London should buy tickets from official sources, check for security features, and verify the ticket's legitimacy before purchase to avoid falling victim to ticket scalping scams.
Q: What is the friendship bracelet scam in Paris, France?
A: In Paris, scammers approach tourists with friendship bracelets, offer to make custom ones, and then demand payment after tying the bracelet too tightly or making an additional request.
Q: How do scammers execute the distraction theft scam in Tokyo, Japan?
A: Scammers in Tokyo use distraction tactics like bumping into tourists, asking for directions, or creating a commotion to steal belongings while the victim is preoccupied, emphasizing the importance of staying aware of surroundings and securing valuables.
Q: What is the overpriced taxi scam in Dubai, UAE?
A: The overpriced taxi scam in Dubai involves taxi drivers overcharging tourists by taking longer routes, refusing to use the meter, or adding unexpected fees, prompting travelers to use official taxis, insist on using the meter, and agree on a fare beforehand to protect themselves.